7 day itinerary for Ámsterdam

Itinerary

Amsterdam is a fantastic city for families, and there’s so much to see and do beyond the museums. Let’s dive into a fun-filled, budget-friendly 7-day itinerary that will keep everyone entertained!

## Day 1: Arrival and Exploring the Neighborhood

• Morning: Arrive in Amsterdam and check into your accommodation. If you’re looking for budget options, consider hostels with family rooms or budget hotels in neighborhoods like De Pijp or Amsterdam Noord.
• Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll around your neighborhood. Grab some lunch at a local café or a street vendor. Try some Dutch pancakes or a quick bite from a food truck.
• Evening: Head to Vondelpark for a relaxing evening. Let the kids run around, and you can enjoy a picnic dinner. There are often free performances in the park, so check the schedule!

## Day 2: Canal Exploration and Local Markets

• Morning: Rent bikes (a great way to explore the city) and take a ride along the canals. You can also opt for a family-friendly canal cruise if biking isn’t your thing.
• Afternoon: Visit the Albert Cuyp Market in De Pijp. It’s a vibrant street market where you can find everything from fresh produce to Dutch snacks. Grab some lunch here—try the stroopwafels!
• Evening: Head to the nearby Sarphatipark for some more outdoor fun. Pack a simple dinner or grab some takeout from a local eatery.

## Day 3: Day Trip to Zaanse Schans

• Morning: Take a short train ride to Zaanse Schans, a picturesque village known for its traditional windmills and wooden houses. It’s free to wander around!
• Afternoon: Explore the area, visit a cheese farm, and watch how clogs are made. There are also some lovely spots for a picnic lunch.
• Evening: Return to Amsterdam and enjoy a casual dinner at a local pizzeria or burger joint.

## Day 4: Parks and Playgrounds

• Morning: Visit Amsterdamse Bos, a large park with plenty of activities. You can rent a canoe, go for a hike, or just enjoy the playgrounds.
• Afternoon: Pack a picnic lunch and find a nice spot in the park. After lunch, let the kids play while you relax.
• Evening: Head back to the city and explore the Jordaan neighborhood. It’s charming and has plenty of affordable eateries. Try some local Dutch fries!

## Day 5: Nature and Animals

• Morning: Visit the Artis Zoo, which is a bit pricier but offers a great experience for families. If you want to save, consider just walking around the zoo’s exterior and enjoying the park.
• Afternoon: After the zoo, head to the nearby Hortus Botanicus (Botanical Garden) for a peaceful stroll among beautiful plants. It’s a lovely place to relax.
• Evening: Grab dinner at a local Indonesian restaurant—Amsterdam is known for its delicious Indonesian cuisine, and many places offer affordable options.

## Day 6: Fun and Games

• Morning: Spend the day at NDSM Wharf, a creative hub with lots of street art and quirky installations. You can take a free ferry from Amsterdam Central Station.
• Afternoon: Check out the playgrounds and art installations, and maybe even join a workshop if available. Bring a packed lunch or grab something from a local food truck.
• Evening: Head back to the city and enjoy a casual dinner. Consider a family-friendly restaurant with a play area for the kids.

## Day 7: Relax and Reflect

• Morning: Take it easy on your last day. Visit the local shops for souvenirs or enjoy a leisurely breakfast at a café.
• Afternoon: Spend some time at the Westerpark, where you can enjoy the green space and maybe catch a local event or market.
• Evening: For your final dinner, find a cozy spot to reflect on your trip. Consider a place with a view of the canals for a memorable farewell.

Tips for Budgeting:

• Use public transport or rent bikes to save on travel costs.
• Look for local eateries and street food for affordable meals.
• Many parks and outdoor spaces are free, so take advantage of them!

I hope this itinerary helps you have a fantastic family trip to Amsterdam! Enjoy every moment! 🌷🚲